Yellowstone - Education Assistant

Position:                    Education Assistant
Location:                   Gardiner, Montana
Reports To:               Education Operations Manager
Status:                       Seasonal/Non-Exempt
Compensation:         $20.51-$22.21/hour

Summary Description
Yellowstone Forever (YF) is the official nonprofit partner of Yellowstone National Park. Our mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance Yellowstone National Park through education and philanthropy. YF connects people to Yellowstone through outstanding visitor experiences and educational programs and translates those experiences into lifelong support of the park and philanthropic investment in its future. Our educational programming and products help people enhance their understanding and appreciation of the wildlife, natural wonders, and cultural history of the park. YF’s operations include Park Stores in and around Yellowstone; the Yellowstone Forever Institute, which offers in-depth educational programing for people of all ages; and a supporter program which raises funds for priority park projects.

The Education Assistant plays a critical role in Yellowstone Forever’s mission creating opportunities for all people to experience Yellowstone. Reporting to Education Operations, this role is instrumental in coordinating administrative tasks essential for the smooth functioning of educational programs.

This position works closely with the education management team, to ensure the smooth execution of program logistics and exceptional customer satisfaction. Responsibilities include coordinating program registrations, tracking program materials, coordinating administrative documentation, and offering program support through various communication channels. Additionally, the Education Assistant serves as a backup field educator as needed, preparing and delivering engaging programs to diverse learners, fostering connections to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Success in this role necessitates strong organizational skills, effective communication abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and a steadfast dedication to supporting Yellowstone National Park's educational initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities 

Administrative Support
Support program registrations by taking reservations via phone and email.
Track program and instructor packets, ensure all forms are properly completed.
File and archive documents such as health forms, waivers, rosters, etc.
Monitor education inbox, provide replies or forward to appropriate party.
Review course letters, confirmation emails, and other program support documents.

Materials Coordination
Assist with course packet buildout and breakdown.
Create labels, print, and staple documents.
Organize education library.
Organize and coordinate education programs and instructor kits.
Coordinate meal orders for programs.

Communication & Program Support
Coordinate with field staff to ensure consistent customer service and clear handoff of customer information.
Monitor website for any program availability discrepancies.
Assist in vehicle drop-offs and pickups.
Arrange and support program guest speakers.

Back-Up Program Delivery & Instruction
Prepare and deliver engaging programs to diverse learners, fostering connections to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, on a back-up and as needed basis.

Miscellaneous
Other duties as assigned by education leadership.
Represent Yellowstone Forever and its mission accurately and positively.
Travel into Yellowstone, throughout and outside the Greater Yellowstone area, as required.

Basic Qualifications:

• 2+ years of relevant administrative experience in an educational or similar setting
• Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Commitment to the mission and values of Yellowstone Forever
• Ability to represent Yellowstone Forever in a professional manner
• Willingness and ability to drive Yellowstone Forever vehicles, with a valid US driver's license and clean driving record
• Willingness to undergo and maintain Yellowstone Forever Driver Training and a Department of Transportation medical exam
• Satisfactory criminal background check as a condition of employment, with subsequent checks every two years

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in education, business administration, or related field
• Experience working with educational program coordination or support
• Familiarity with field Education Operations Manager or similar outdoor education programs
• Experience working in a nonprofit organization
• Knowledge of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and familiarity with Yellowstone National Park's educational programs and operations
• Experience coordinating with volunteers or instructors
• Experience delivering presentations at public events or professional meetings
• Previous work experience in a national park or similar outdoor recreational setting